Tom, excellent points. In addition, realtors (especially the agents specializing in REO’s) can bring you many deals. Remember, houses needing much work are not well suited for the retail marketplace. These properties also make it difficult, for agents, to show to most buyers. Most agents know that this type of property is an investor property. And many agents have a list of investors to sell these properties to. Since you don’t pay the commission, try to get on their list. Remember, many good deals that agents get never make it into the MLS books.
Posted by Tom Brown on October 12, 1998 at 12:52:31:
Unfortunately, if the house is listed with a Realtor the best approach is to have the agent show you the house. You can, however, insist on going with the Realtor to present any offer. This allows you to explain a creative offer and answer any questions the seller may have. In most cases the seller is going to have to pay the Realtor anyway, so it is best not to alienate the Realtor if possible.
Just don’t let any uneducated Realtors bully you around.